Montessori School of Central Vermont

“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” 🌳

Tomorrow seven remarkable 6th graders will cross over into the next stage of their educational journey. We have had the privilege of watching them learn, lead, explore, and grow. They have grown into confident, capable, compassionate leaders, and we couldn’t be more proud.

While they may be leaving our classrooms, they will always be part of our MSCVT family. 💛❤️💚

As they spread their wings, we celebrate all they have achieved and look forward to all they will become.

Congratulations to our graduates—we are so proud of you! 🌟

One of the hidden treasures of a small Montessori school is the ability for siblings and families to remain connected throughout their day. Whether it’s sharing a smile, helping a younger sibling, or celebrating a special moment together, these interactions create lasting memories and strengthen relationships that extend far beyond the classroom. ❤️

✨ Staff Spotlight: Talon ✨

This week we’re excited to introduce Talon, one of our wonderful Float Teachers at MSCVT!

Talon joined our community 9 months ago, but her journey into early childhood education started with becoming a parent. When childcare options were scarce, Talon found a unique solution—joining a childcare program as a teacher so her son could attend.

What began as a necessity quickly became a passion.

Wanting to learn more, Talon enrolled in the Fundamentals of Early Childcare course through CCV/Northern Lights and discovered a deep appreciation for the incredible growth, independence, and capability children demonstrate every day.

MSCVT first came onto Talon’s radar through family members whose children attended the school. After hearing their experiences and learning more about Montessori education, Talon was eager to become part of the community.

And community is exactly what stands out most.

“Families don’t exist on their own—they exist in communities. MSCVT is one of the very best communities I’ve encountered.”

Talon appreciates being part of a team that is united by a shared commitment to supporting children and creating a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors.

Outside of school, Talon lives in Brookfield with her husband, a professional chef, their son, and two dogs. Together they’re working toward their dream of a small homestead.

When she’s not at MSCVT, you might find her reading science fiction or fantasy, knitting, crocheting, gardening, swimming, or learning about an entirely new hobby from someone who’s excited to share it.

In fact, Talon says one of her favorite things is listening to people talk about what they love.

Got a niche interest? An unusual craft? A topic you’re passionate about? Talon wants to hear all about it.

We’re so grateful for the curiosity, humor, kindness, and community spirit Talon brings to MSCVT. We’re lucky to have you on our team! 💙

A close-up of childhood. ✍🏼

Not the faces. Not the smiles.

But the hands that are exploring, creating, discovering, and learning every single day.

Before children can change the world, they must first learn what they’re capable of.

That journey begins here—with busy hands, curious minds, and meaningful work. 🤍

🌻 Staff Spotlight: Nicole Galipeau 🌻

If you’ve spent time in our Elementary community you’ve likely experienced Nicole’s creativity, warmth, and passion.

Nicole has been a part of MSCVT for an incredible 17 years. Originally from Western Massachusetts, she came to Montessori after earning her degree in art and spending many years teaching art and ceramics to a wide variety of learners.

She first came to MSCVT to help teach art, but over the years her role has grown in meaningful ways. Today, she serves as an Elementary Guide while continuing to share her love of creativity through art and our Making Things program, where students can explore activities such as pottery, cooking, games, and hands-on projects that encourage learning through doing.

One of the things Nicole appreciates most about Montessori is the emphasis on respecting and following the child. She values how this approach helps build understanding, trust, and authentic relationships between children and adults.

Outside of school, Nicole enjoys working with clay at a local studio, practicing Sundo, and spending as much time in the water as possible during Vermont’s warmer months. She also loves watching her daughter pursue her own path in education as a student at UVM studying elementary education—a journey that reflects the same passion for learning and children that Nicole brings to her work every day.

Nicole’s creativity extends far beyond the classroom, but it’s the care, patience, and thoughtful guidance she brings to MSCVT each day that make such a lasting impact on our community. We are grateful to have her as part of our school family!

🌟 Staff Spotlight: Shellie Bailey 🌟

At MSCVT, our educators bring passion, dedication, and heart to everything they do, and Shellie Bailey, our Primary Guide, is no exception!

A Barre native, Shellie joined the MSCVT family 4.5 years ago after spending seven years working as an assistant in the public school system. Her introduction to Montessori came through a childhood friend, Karlie Mackenzie, who encouraged her to visit MSCVT. After learning more about the school and experiencing the community firsthand, Shellie knew she had found something special.

What makes MSCVT meaningful to Shellie is the strong sense of connection that exists throughout the school. She values the encouragement and support shared among staff and families and appreciates being part of a community that works together to help children thrive. One of her favorite parts of each day is greeting her students and seeing their excitement as they begin their learning journey.

Outside of school, Shellie enjoys spending time with her son, Dylan, family gatherings, getting lost in a good book, swimming, and taking long walks with her dog.

Thank you, Shellie, for the kindness, enthusiasm, and care you bring to our school each day. We are grateful to have you as part of the MSCVT community! 💙

Every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow at MSCVT. Whether they’re learning teamwork through lacrosse, expressing themselves through music and pottery, cooking with confidence, or getting their hands dirty in the garden, our students are building life skills that go far beyond academics. 🌿🥍🎶🍅🎨

🌟 Staff Spotlight: Kayla Gilman 🌟

This week we’re so happy to feature Kayla Gilman, one of our incredible Primary Assistants at MSCVT! 💛

Kayla has been a valued part of the MSCVT community for the past 10 years. Originally from Danville, she brings a thoughtful and caring presence to the classroom each day. She holds associate degrees in Behavioral Science and Early Childhood Education and is currently completing her Primary Montessori training through Center for Guided Montessori Studies.

Kayla first connected with MSCVT while nannying for her sister, whose son joined the Birch classroom. Soon after, an opportunity opened in Aftercare, beginning what would become a decade-long journey with our school community.

She now lives in Orange with her husband and their two-year-old son, Eddy, who attends our toddler program. 🥰

One of Kayla’s favorite parts of working at MSCVT is witnessing children develop confidence, curiosity, and excitement about the world around them.

When she’s not at school, Kayla enjoys knitting, getting lost in a good book, and making memories with her family. 🧶📖

Thank you, Kayla, for all the kindness, patience, laughter, and dedication you bring to MSCVT each and every day! ✨

Little hands, big discoveries! ✋🏻

Thursday at MSCVT brings busy hands, focused minds, and happy hearts! 💕

Refining skills through repetition and purpose!

‘What the hand does, the mind remembers’- Maria Montessori 🧠